Police have decided not to prosecute DUP MP Iris Robinson over her controversial remarks about homosexuality, it has emerged.

The PSNI serious crime branch launched an investigation into remarks made by the First Minister’s wife — that homosexuality was “viler than child abuse” and could be “cured” — following a number of complaints from the public.

After active inquiries were carried out, the PSNI sought advice from the Public Prosecution Service about the case before making any decision to formally forward a file for consideration to prosecute.

However, after several months of consideration the PSNI has confirmed a decision had been taken not to charge the MP. A spokesman said police are satisfied no offence was committed.

“On receipt of the advice of the Public Prosecution Service and considering all of the matters raised, the police service is satisfied that on the occasions considered, Mrs Robinson did not commit an offence.

“As a consequence, no further police action will be taken in relation to these complaints.”

A DUP spokesman said: “The orchestrated vilification of Iris Robinson has failed. It is a shame that those behind it cannot accept the decision of the PSNI and the PPS.

“Iris Robinson did nothing wrong. She was asked to express a personal view and that is exactly what she did. Ulster people who believe in the fundamental right to freedom of speech accept this. It is regrettable that some of those who have engaged in this complete waste of police and PPS time should seek to silence any view that does not conform to their own through abusing legal process in this way.

“In this environment, when police resources are so vital to our |society, people will rightly question whether it was the best use of detective’s time, pursuing a politically-motivated complaint.

“In the meantime, Iris Robinson will continue to do what she has always done — provide first-class representation for the people of Strangford.”

However, Colin Flinn, who chairs an advisory group for lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgendered people said the current legislation needed to be reviewed.

He said: “While we are disappointed that a prosecution will not take place enabling the law to be publicly tested, we hope that in future Mrs Robinson and others may in future respect the diversity within our society and desist from attacking our community.

“There is a fine balance between freedom of speech, expressions of faith and the human right to be oneself and to live within a society free from discrimination and fear, whatever one's sexuality orientation.”

Mrs Robinson caused a storm when she told the House of Commons, during a debate on the |assessment and management of sex offenders, that “there can be no viler act, apart from homosexuality and sodomy, than sexually abusing innocent children”.